Converting waste into mobility: Green hydrogen from waste for Frankfurt

The MH2Regio project is groundbreaking territory for Frankfurt am Main, for which the hydrogen expertise of Tractebel is being called upon. It is the first project for the development of hydrogen infrastructure in the region surrounding the Main metropolis for the provision of green hydrogen. This is intended to secure the transport transition in local and regional public transport, heavy goods and freight transport and inland waterway transport.

Role model project 

As winner of the “HyLand” competition, the city of Frankfurt am Main is receiving federal funding for the development of a concept for a regional hydrogen supply system and to become a “HyExperts” region role model. The municipal energy utility Mainova AG initiated the project. Also involved are the municipal waste management operator FES and the jointly operated waste-to-energy plant. Various partner companies from the transport sector which, as potential customers for the hydrogen which is generated, are providing demand data as the basis for planning and are thereby also involved. The plans are for cost-efficient hydrogen production from green electricity, with the objective of developing an economically viable general concept for the required transport transition. The project is also intended to provide a blueprint for other metropolitan areas.

Green power from waste 

The electricity to produce hydrogen will be supplied by the waste-to-energy plant. The waste incineration process generates thermal energy, which is fed to two steam turbines via a water and steam circuit. The turbines provide electric power for the grid and hydrogen production via electricity generators. Since the biogenic component (e.g., wood, domestic biowaste) in the incinerated waste makes up about 50 percent, the electricity generated in this way counts as green power and is certified accordingly. The plan for the MH2Regio project is the exclusive use of green power for the generation of hydrogen by electrolysis, to provide a whole region with mobility using this climate-friendly energy. 

Expertise on the spot  

Our experts are undertaking the study for the MH2Regio concept. In this regard, the scheme will benefit from Tractebel’s extensive waste-to-wheels experience. “We have a presence in the region and provide consulting advice and planning services on the spot,” says our hydrogen expert, Felix Knicker, “our package covers the preliminary technical planning of the electrolysis and filling station infrastructure, the economic analysis and the software modelling.” The Tractebel team will be presenting its concluding findings in November 2021.